Forbidden City & Great Wall.
Best time: Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct
Budget: $40-80/day
Top fact: The Forbidden City, completed in 1420, served as the imperial palace for 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
View Beijing →Pandas & Sichuan flavor.
Best time: Mar–Jun, Sep–Nov
Budget: $40-80/day
Top fact: Chengdu is home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, which has successfully bred over 200 giant pandas since its establishment in 1993.
View Chengdu →Both in China — compare vibe, budget, and best season.